FLAT PLATE VS. EVACUATED TUBE SOLAR HOT WATER COLLECTORS

Solar hot water has come a long way in the last decade, particularly with the introduction of evacuated tube collectors that are rapidly becoming the preferred option over flat plate systems. If you’re not sure of the difference between the two in terms of how they work, read our brief guide to solar hot water systems.

Capture sunlight better as they have a greater surface area exposed to the sun at any time

Are more efficient in transferring heat – up to 163% demonstrated in Australian conditions!

Can be used in subzero temperatures

Are durable and if a tube should be broken, it can be easily and cheaply replaced.

Provide excellent performance in overcast conditions

Require a smaller roof area than comparable flat plate collectors

Do not have the same level of corrosion problems as flat plate collectors

Solar hot water collectors efficiency comparisons

The results below speak for themselves as to the improved efficiency of evacuated tube technology over flat plate collector solar hot water systems.

The following figures demonstrate efficiencies of collectors when heating water from ambient temperature to 75 degrees Celsius – data provided by Hills Solar. Flate Plate Collector efficiency testing was performed at National Solar Test Facility Canada.

Sydney, New South Wales

Winter:
Based upon solar insolation of 426W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 13.1degrees Celsius in Sydney, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on Average 104% more efficient per m2 of aperture compared to flat plate solar collector.**

Summer: Based upon solar insolation of 840W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 21.3 degrees Celsius in Sydney, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on Average 50.5% more efficient per m2 of aperture.**

Melbourne, Victoria

Winter:
Based upon solar insolation of 296W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 9.9 degrees Celsius in Melbourne, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on Average 163.5% more efficient per m2 of aperture over the flat plate solar collector.**

Summer: Based upon solar insolation of 861W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 19.8 degrees Celsius in Melbourne, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on average 51.5% more efficient..**

Brisbane, Queensland

Winter:
Based upon solar insolation of 546W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 17.8 degrees Celsius in Brisbane, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on average 81% more efficient per m2 of aperture compared to the flat plate solar collector.**

Summer: Based upon solar insolation of 828W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 25.2 degrees Celsius in Brisbane, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on Average 54% more efficient.**

Adelaide, South Australia

Winter:
Based upon solar insolation of 452W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 10.9 degrees Celsius in Adelaide, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on Average 132% more efficient per m2 of aperture than the flat plate solar collector.**

Summer:
Based upon solar insolation of 953W/m2 and an ambient temperature of 22.1 degrees Celsius in Adelaide, the Hills Esteem evacuated tube solar collector is on Average 52% more efficient.**

A correctly installed solar hot water system can start saving you money straight away, while doing your bit towards a smaller carbon footprint. Contact us today via email or on 133-SUN and speak to our friendly, knowledgeable team for advice on a system to suit your needs.